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Public Works outlines equipment purchases and seeks grants and Penvest loan for wastewater projects
Summary
Public Works reported a state-funded backhoe purchase ($185,927.29), smaller capital buys (HVAC ductwork and mower), and plans to apply for an LSA grant for a vacuum truck (approx. $628,000). Wastewater staff discussed pursuing a Penvest loan to finance roughly $3.5 million in projects as a lower-interest alternative to bonds.
Public Works presented several action items and financing options for capital needs at the Lansdale work session.
The committee said a backhoe purchase will be funded through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with Representative Steve Malgari's assistance; the purchase price reported was $185,927.29. Public Works also listed a laboratory HVAC duct proposal (about $24,720) and a zero-turn mower ($17,034.65). The committee said it will seek an LSA grant for engineering design related to a vacuum truck, which staff estimated would cost about $628,000 to purchase.
Wastewater staff discussed using a Penvest loan to finance roughly $3.5 million in projects rather than issuing bonds, noting the loan’s lower interest costs could save the borough substantial interest expense over time. Staff framed Penvest as more suitable for wastewater and stormwater projects and said further budget planning will occur in small-group budget meetings.
Council members were also briefed on PennDOT striping work for Main and Broad (primary work expected complete by Nov. 21) and on an emergency storm sewer pipe repair at Acorn and Talmenson that will be charged to the operating budget.
No final contractual approvals were recorded in the work session for the LSA or Penvest items; the items are being prepared for formal action in upcoming meetings.
